G-Owens: R&B Singer's The Feeling Has Pop Appeal

As 2012 draws to a close, we'll be looking forward to the 2013 and spotlighting 13 Phoenix bands that will be making a mark on the Southwest throughout the new year. This entry comes from Jason P. Woodbury, examining the funky textures of G-Owens' excellent new record, The Feeling.

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The sweeping strings of "Love You Better" could come from D'Angelo's Voodoo; "Second Time Pt. 2" rides a stuttering beat and Stevie Wonder electric piano; "The Thought that Counts" is haunting, sounding like it could come from Common's neglected Electric Circus.

This kind of ambition often sacrifices artistic clarity, but Owens sounds confident and sure the entire album through, with a brazen, earthy voice that finds equal footing in nimble hip-hop verses and aloof singing. As part of the Earsweat crew, Owens finds himself in good company, but stands out as the most pop focused vocalist, one poised to make big moves in 2013.